Clear spots, moisturise hair - five of the best essential oils

I once sat across the aisle on a long-haul flight from a woman who went berserk because someone drizzled lavender oil on to their pillow as a sleep aid. The woman was allergic to lavender. The disgraced ‘someone’ was me. I bring you this column in a cautionary vein.

Not everyone, then, is a fan of essential oils. Although I think she was being ridiculously neurotic, it seems sensible to check with your neighbours before using them. The positive flip side: they’re clearly powerful little agents.

Not all oils are classed as essential. Some, such as cold-pressed almond, avocado, olive or coconut oil, are carriers. You can use them on their own (try to buy food-grade), add boosters – the essentials...